crossbows all season yes or no

[wildcoy73]

oka guys as many have seen i support the use of crossbows for every season.
i believe it would get more youth into hunting and keep are older hunters in the woods. so with that being said i see nothing but great things to come with the crossbow.
people fear it but 80% of you hunt private land, so make them not allowed on your place. for myself i do alot of hunting on public land and i will be the first to welcome any crossbow hunter out in the area i hunt
now let get to the poll and see what we want and maybe send this to lansing and get it pass in time for the 2009 season would be nice for this one than my ten year old girl would be in the woods

[fisher210]

I agree they should be alowed too, but in following other threads in other sites, I'd say you and I are about the only ones..
Howard

[Slick fishing]

We all want the same the most humane kill possible so why not a cross bow..Cya Slick

[dsconnell]

They are just as accurate if not more than a bow and have the same basic range!

[HUBBHUNTER]

When it comes to a quick and clean kill cross bows are no different that regular bows. I know for a fact it would help with get younger and older people either for a time hunt or returned to the woods after not hunting for a few years. My dad had shoulder surgery done 2 years ago and cant pull a bow back anymore. He's not disabled so he cant get a cross bow permit but he wants to get back in the woods. Situations like this make you want to:rant::rant:

[HunterHawk]

well with those two options i cant really vote on your poll....

yes i think cross bows should be allowed but only for people that are over like 50 or something and cant pull back a bow... I couldnt hunt deer until i was 12 and honestly you dont need to be hunting any sooner than that with a bow... yes maybe they can now with this new thing they have running i was just saying... I still stayed in the outdoors not being brought up shooting crossbows so other kids can too...older people doing it i have no problem with..... some kind of age restriction and disability reasons

[old graybeard]

well with those two options i cant really vote on your poll....

yes i think cross bows should be allowed but only for people that are over like 50 or something and cant pull back a bow... I couldnt hunt deer until i was 12 and honestly you dont need to be hunting any sooner than that with a bow... yes maybe they can now with this new thing they have running i was just saying... I still stayed in the outdoors not being brought up shooting crossbows so other kids can too...older people doing it i have no problem with..... some kind of age restriction and disability reasons

There is no option listed for me to vote either because I feel they should only be legal for those that are handicapped. However that does not mean that someone over or around fifty needs one:pYou young whipper snapper:D

[DANIEL MARK ZAPOLSKI]

They are just as accurate if not more than a bow and have the same basic range!

now that has alot of SPIN ON IT:lol:. HOW ABOUT SOME FACTS?:confused: i used to be able to shoot my recurve bow better than alot of gun hunters could shoot their weapons. but that only speaks about how much i practiced versus their lack of practice and SKILL LEVEL.
so all in all it depends on who does what, not the weapon itself, doesn't it?:coolgleam

[kwcharne]

My .02. I think that they should be legal, but for people that cannot use a bow during bow season. Or have a season of their own. Personally, I have used both and feel that a crossbow is easier to use,more accurate, and faster. I'm sure that there are alot of guys out there that can shoot just as accurate with a bow.

[NoWake]

It would be a disaster if the State allowed crossbows for everyone during the regular archery season. It's bad enough now with all these fancy wheel bows with all their contraptions.

When driving around town with my buck in the back of my truck (with the tailgate down) everyone in town might assume I took the easy way out and used a crossbow. I could lose all my 'street cred'. It's bad enough now having to explain to everyone (not in the know) how much more challenging it is to hunt the way I do. Many folks already automatically assume I use a compound with a release, lighted sights, drop away rest, carbon arrows, mechanical broadheads, climbing stands, camo, and scent control products.

It is a pain having to explain to them how much better of a hunter I am than that, and convince them how it is sooo much more of a rewarding experience to do it my way, the right way. Making my own bow, arrows, and points. Giving up showers except for the occasional rinse off in the creek. Wearing nothing but a loin cloth and self made moccasins and walking 6 miles back and forth from my hunting property. The hours of practice it takes every day to be able to consistantly keep less than 12" groups at 25 yards.

I guess maybe I could accept crossbows in archery season for everyone if there would be some kind of way the general population could easily identify these posers. Maybe make all able bodied crossbow hunters get a big "L" tattooed on their forhead or something. lol "L" for .......................

:lol:

[dsconnell]

It would be a disaster if the State allowed crossbows for everyone during the regular archery season. It's bad enough now with all these fancy wheel bows with all their contraptions.

When driving around town with my buck in the back of my truck (with the tailgate down) everyone in town might assume I took the easy way out and used a crossbow. I could lose all my 'street cred'. It's bad enough now having to explain to everyone (not in the know) how much more challenging it is to hunt the way I do. Many folks already automatically assume I use a compound with a release, lighted sights, drop away rest, carbon arrows, mechanical broadheads, climbing stands, camo, and scent control products.

It is a pain having to explain to them how much better of a hunter I am than that, and convince them how it is sooo much more of a rewarding experience to do it my way, the right way. Making my own bow, arrows, and points. Giving up showers except for the occasional rinse off in the creek. Wearing nothing but a loin cloth and self made moccasins and walking 6 miles back and forth from my hunting property. The hours of practice it takes every day to be able to consistantly keep less than 12" groups at 25 yards.

I guess maybe I could accept crossbows in archery season for everyone if there would be some kind of way the general population could easily identify these posers. Maybe make all able bodied crossbow hunters get a big "L" tattooed on their forhead or something. lol "L" for .......................

:lol:


I sinerely hope you are joking?

[boehr]

Yes, legal for all seasons and game!

[November Sunrise]

It would be a disaster if the State allowed crossbows for everyone during the regular archery season. It's bad enough now with all these fancy wheel bows with all their contraptions.

When driving around town with my buck in the back of my truck (with the tailgate down) everyone in town might assume I took the easy way out and used a crossbow. I could lose all my 'street cred'. It's bad enough now having to explain to everyone (not in the know) how much more challenging it is to hunt the way I do. Many folks already automatically assume I use a compound with a release, lighted sights, drop away rest, carbon arrows, mechanical broadheads, climbing stands, camo, and scent control products.

It is a pain having to explain to them how much better of a hunter I am than that, and convince them how it is sooo much more of a rewarding experience to do it my way, the right way. Making my own bow, arrows, and points. Giving up showers except for the occasional rinse off in the creek. Wearing nothing but a loin cloth and self made moccasins and walking 6 miles back and forth from my hunting property. The hours of practice it takes every day to be able to consistantly keep less than 12" groups at 25 yards.

I guess maybe I could accept crossbows in archery season for everyone if there would be some kind of way the general population could easily identify these posers. Maybe make all able bodied crossbow hunters get a big "L" tattooed on their forhead or something. lol "L" for .......................

:lol:

Right on! I'm with you - that's the way I see it as well.

[Shlwego]

I'm not in favor of restricting the use of crossbows to those hunters only of a certain age or disability. If they're going to be legal, make them legal for everyone. I am not sure they should be treated exactly like bows, but I would be in favor of allowing them to be used during their own season, or perhaps a season that runs concurrently with the black powder season.

[Bwilson]

I personally dont see the issue with a person using a crossbow. Hunter is a hunter regardless of thier choice of a weapon. Why not support a fellow hunter. So youre oppossed to crossbows are you oppossed to inline muzzle loader instead a flint lock muzzleloader? Using a crossbow is just another option of bow. you still pull a trigger on your release to let the string go. ok instead of having 75%let off you have 100% so what. I guess im missing what the problem is.

I have two friends who have had torn rotater cuffs in thier shoulders both have issues holding thier elbow level to thier shoulders. One of themeven purchased a bow that was 50lbs to hunt with and still had so much of a problem he only hunted one day. He is 19 years old. I couldnt imagin losing a whole season every year until people made it possible.

I dont care what you harvest an animal with long as youre a safe HUNTER.

[One Eye]

If that was to happen, I ask why not rifles in all seasons? Why not 3 months of any weapons? After all, that would kill all the deer they want killed.

dan

[Ferris_StateHunter]

Yes, legal for all seasons and game!


I couldnt agree more

[wildcoy73]

for all thoose that have not been able to say yes i would like facts to why your so afraid af this weapon. or is it that your better than them?:dizzy:
30 yards is 30yards no matter what weapon you hunt with. let people hunt the way they so choose. If it would be i would have to give up my archery season so more people could hunt like the old young and my fellow sportsman that can't pull a bow back than so be it i will give it up. for myself you could get rid of the gun season not much going on for me during that two weeks i love my archery hunting and i would be willing to share the season with any type of bow............
YES CROSSBOWS ARE STILL A BOW

[walleyeman2006]

yes but it would need a very strict set of laws and draw wieghts would need to be checked.......heres why i say that....150lb cross bows dont have the power stroke of a longer bow ....and do not transfer energy as effeicently..........this should all ready be on the books....imho.....theres too many old cross bows around that dont have power to kill a deer around............that being said even those old cb s can work if the distance is cut down .......but ive seen people get a little wako on distances with em lol scopes dont make bolts fly any farther then they can fly lol

[AnointedArcher]

I have no problem with using Crossguns as long as it is from November 15th to November 30th, they ARE NOT bows and should not be allowed during Bow season!

[Bmac]

I voted yes. I have just switched from shooting a compound to recurves. If someone else wants to use a crossbow that should be their choice. Why should anyone feel so self important that "their" way is the only way? I'm becoming less worried about anti-hunters and more about my fellow "sportsmen".:16suspect

[huntingfool43]

yes but it would need a very strict set of laws and draw wieghts would need to be checked.......heres why i say that....150lb cross bows dont have the power stroke of a longer bow ....and do not transfer energy as effeicently..........this should all ready be on the books....imho.....theres too many old cross bows around that dont have power to kill a deer around............

It is already a law the it has to be at least 150# draw to be used for hunting. And you are right, they do not transfer or store as much energy as a compound and are less lethal than the modern compound past 25 yards. Now if you can just get all the nay sayers to understand that maybe their fear of them will go away. They are not some magical weapon that can kill a deer at great distance and fix all the operators misfortunes. Not to mention they are heavy, noisy, and akword to carry. If I had the choice I would much rather use a compound bow but am stuck using a crossbow.

[kwcharne]

Right on! I'm with you - that's the way I see it as well.


I also agree with you both to a certain extent. I dont go as far as to make my own bow and arrow, but we cant deny that with technology hunting is getting alot easier. Im am guilty of it, last hunting season was the first I ever used a scope on my rifle. I just thought that I should get one, so I broke down and put one on, and yes it made this past hunting season alot easier. I shot deer at distances this year that I would never have done with my iron sites. One challanging part about bow hunting is waiting for that moment to draw back on a deer without is seeing you. Dont have to worry about that with a crossbow. The FIRST time I shot a crossbow I was able to put arrows in a very tight group at about 25-30yds using a scope. Personally, I could not do that with my bow. I think crossbows should be used, but not during bow season. Again, I personally think that they are easier to use than a bow.

[Whit1]

Again, I personally think that they are easier to use than a bow.

Does this lead to a following thought that crossbows account for a higher percentage of whitetails killed than a vertical bow because "....they are easier to use than a bow"? If you believe this then you would be wrong. There is no data in any state that allows crossbows to be used during the general archery season that shows they are more efficient killers of deer. The percentages are virtually the same statistically speaking.

In a hunting situation, which is not what you experienced, crossbows can be more difficult to use due to the fact they are quite cumbersome.

I've never shot a vertical that was fitted with a scope and/or laser sight system. Are they "easier to use" than a vertical bow without such a sight(s)?

[Ferris_StateHunter]

Does this lead to a following thought that crossbows account for a higher percentage of whitetails killed than a vertical bow because "....they are easier to use than a bow"? If you believe this then you would be wrong. There is no data in any state that allows crossbows to be used during the general archery season that shows they are more efficient killers of deer. The percentages are virtually the same statistically speaking.

In a hunting situation, which is not what you experienced, crossbows can be more difficult to use due to the fact they are quite cumbersome.

I've never shot a vertical that was fitted with a scope and/or laser sight system. Are they "easier to use" than a vertical bow without such a sight(s)?

spot on whit... I personally feel most who are against are concerned that someone else will be infringing on their time in the woods, or shooting "their" deer. when ultimately the bottom line is they ARE still bow hunting. There are many myths about crossbows, and I just wish others would be able to see them and set the facts straight

[captjimtc]

Yes allow it for bow hunting season especially if it helps improve the accuracy of some of the hack bow hunters I have seen in the past. I see too many people bowhunting that have no business pulling the string back and this might actually help but on the other hand it might make hunters even lazier and not practice at all.

[stillwaiting]

YEAH, FOR EVERYONE. If you take the appropriate safety course(s), if required, why not. I hope something takes effect this year before opener.

[Moonkryket]

that drive me nuts:16suspect

"It would be a disaster if the State allowed crossbows for everyone during the regular archery season. It's bad enough now with all these fancy wheel bows with all their contraptions".

90% of the folks that make such comments are probably shooting a modern recurve or long bow and shooting high tech carbon arrows or even "tin" (metal) :Darrows with replaceable stainless blades. They set THEIR equipment up to the level of modernization they want and NOW want to tell you and me we can't set our level of bowhunting equipment where WE want:one_eye: Go figure:tdo12:

Anyone that truly believes crossbows in archery season will be a dsisaster only has to look at Ohio, Virginia and other states that allow crossbows during archery and other seasons to see that the statement makes no sense and is factually WRONG.

I'm 65 years old and have been an avid and successful bowhunter for 43 years using all levels of archery equipment from long bows, recurves and compounds. I feel no less of a bowhunter using a crossbow than I did shooting a long bow. Sure, the level of effort to be proficient is higher with a long bow...................SO????????????????? If that should be a factor or requirement, throw away your modern long bows and carbon arrows and go make yourself a self bow out of a hickory stick and make yourself some reed arrows with hand chipped flint heads and feathers tied on with twine. Now that really makes sense too huh?:16suspect

[kwcharne]

Does this lead to a following thought that crossbows account for a higher percentage of whitetails killed than a vertical bow because "....they are easier to use than a bow"? If you believe this then you would be wrong. There is no data in any state that allows crossbows to be used during the general archery season that shows they are more efficient killers of deer. The percentages are virtually the same statistically speaking.

In a hunting situation, which is not what you experienced, crossbows can be more difficult to use due to the fact they are quite cumbersome.

I've never shot a vertical that was fitted with a scope and/or laser sight system. Are they "easier to use" than a vertical bow without such a sight(s)?

I have read the data and agree, crossbows dont account for a higher percentage of kills nor are they more efficient killers. And again your right, I have not experienced a crossbow in a hunting situation. But as I said, I personally found it very easy to master a crossbow: much more easier than a vertical bow. I also believe that that is the case for the majority of people as well. If you have found that mastering both to be the same, please let me know. I believe that vertical bow hunting is very challenging and that is why more people hunt with guns. Gun hunting takes less practice and effort, and I believe the same is true for crossbow hunting. Does that mean that they should be outlawed, NO. Does that mean that they should be in a different season then archery.? I think so. I am not worried about people being in the woods shooting "my" deer. I would love to have a chance to hunt with a crossbow for the experience. Again, that is my opinion and my experince with a crossbow.

[marty]

Crossguns now that's funny:lol:. People don't understand that a crossbows kills the same way any bow does. If you ever shot a rifle you would know that comparing a crossbow to a rifle is hogwash:D. The energy that a rifle has is no comparison to a crossbow.........m:D

[eddiejohn4]

have no probs with anyone who uses or wishes to use a crossbow.

[walleyeman2006]

now if its legallized does that mean i can put a cross lock brace on my martin?,,,,,,,,,id love to see that legal .....what i mean is effectively making my regular compound bow into a cross bow.......

[lang49]

for all thoose that have not been able to say yes i would like facts to why your so afraid af this weapon. or is it that your better than them?:dizzy:


Couple of facts to consider:

1. Many people who don't even hunt deer are unhappy with their opportunities to hunt small game, trap, or otherwise enjoy public land during firearm season. Though their fears are not necessarily well founded, they are unwilling to take a chance on letting deer hunting encroach further on their enjoyment of their respective sports. You'd (colllectively, not wildcoy himself) better come up with a better arguement than simply trying to accuse these people of being greedy.

2. Game management in Michigan has never been based solely on science! :lol: You can argue it should (and I don't disagree) but this is not likely to change overnight.

Good luck,
Andrew

[OscodaAsh]

I personally dont see the issue with a person using a crossbow. Hunter is a hunter regardless of thier choice of a weapon. Why not support a fellow hunter. So youre oppossed to crossbows are you oppossed to inline muzzle loader instead a flint lock muzzleloader? Using a crossbow is just another option of bow. you still pull a trigger on your release to let the string go. ok instead of having 75%let off you have 100% so what. I guess im missing what the problem is.

I have two friends who have had torn rotater cuffs in thier shoulders both have issues holding thier elbow level to thier shoulders. One of themeven purchased a bow that was 50lbs to hunt with and still had so much of a problem he only hunted one day. He is 19 years old. I couldnt imagin losing a whole season every year until people made it possible.

I dont care what you harvest an animal with long as youre a safe HUNTER.

If a hunter is a hunter no matter what kind of weapon then its cool if I hit big bucks with my truck, right?

[wildcoy73]

oka crossbows are easier to set up ????? i really don't see it i can have a new compound bow shooting groups at 25 yards in the kill zone in 5 minutes. i have done this each year with my own bow for the last 5 years diffrent bow each year and have done it for my wife on two bows. i can get her shooting the bow more acurate than the gun so her bow is more of an advantage to her. do we outlaw her with a bow and make her shoot a gun because she has trouble with it?

[marty]

If a hunter is a hunter no matter what kind of weapon then its cool if I hit big bucks with my truck, right?

Surley you jest?? How much control would you have over your truck?? What would prevent that big buck from coming through the windshield and possibly hurting or killing someone? Or you hurting someone else:rant:

So no it's not cool if you hit big bucks with your truck:mad:

[wally-eye]

Surley you jest?? How much control would you have over your truck?? What would prevent that big buck from coming through the windshield and possibly hurting or killing someone? Or you hurting someone else:rant:

So no it's not cool if you hit big bucks with your truck:mad:


Marty don't worry about it. When people can't come up with any scientific reason to deny crossbows they come up with illogical statements........

[Skinner 2]

If a hunter is a hunter no matter what kind of weapon then its cool if I hit big bucks with my truck, right?


Go for it. It's perfectly legal when a deer is hit.....long as you don't run them down on purpose. No license needed and your insurance company will love you along with your collision shop. We can then also add you to the Darwin List.

Skinner

[hunting man]

Lets see now,
The limit remains the same no matter what weapon is chosen. So I cant think of a single reason for them not to be legal.

I'm going to get mine and I dont care how you get yours. :D

[Eric Jennings]

I voted "no" and my opinion will not change until I see a significant number of crossbow enthusiasts demonstrating that they are not merely looking for an easier way to hunt deer during the bow season. For instance, I know of at least a dozen people that use bows during gun season, but I don't know of anybody that uses a crossbow during gun season. There are probably thousands of such bowhunters in Michigan that thrive on the challenge that bow hunting provides. When I start seeing evidence of thousands of crossbow hunters taking advantage of the law that allows them to hunt during the gun season, or some other sign that they really don’t just want crossbows for a shortcut, then I may be impressed enough to change my mind on the topic. Actions speak louder than words.

[wally-eye]

I voted "no" and my opinion will not change until I see a significant number of crossbow enthusiasts demonstrating that they are not merely looking for an easier way to hunt deer during the bow season. For instance, I know of at least a dozen people that use bows during gun season, but I don't know of anybody that uses a crossbow during gun season. There are probably thousands of such bowhunters in Michigan that thrive on the challenge that bow hunting provides. When I start seeing evidence of thousands of crossbow hunters taking advantage of the law that allows them to hunt during the gun season, or some other sign that they really don’t just want crossbows for a shortcut, then I may be impressed enough to change my mind on the topic. Actions speak louder than words.



What you are stating is impossible to show/prove or disprove and is just another thinly veiled attempt to deny a valid hunting method...............

If I took off all the "shortcuts" off my compound bow there wouldn't be anything left but a string...........:dizzy:

I won't attempt to play God so I vote for crossbows to be used in all seasons.

[Dead Bird]

I voted "no" and my opinion will not change until I see a significant number of crossbow enthusiasts demonstrating that they are not merely looking for an easier way to hunt deer during the bow season. For instance, I know of at least a dozen people that use bows during gun season, but I don't know of anybody that uses a crossbow during gun season. There are probably thousands of such bowhunters in Michigan that thrive on the challenge that bow hunting provides. When I start seeing evidence of thousands of crossbow hunters taking advantage of the law that allows them to hunt during the gun season, or some other sign that they really don’t just want crossbows for a shortcut, then I may be impressed enough to change my mind on the topic. Actions speak louder than words.

so sorry for your lack of friends... I use a crossbow during the gun season...
when you say bow are you talking about a long bow, recurve or some 80% let off bow want a be....

[Munsterlndr]

I voted "no" and my opinion will not change until I see a significant number of crossbow enthusiasts demonstrating that they are not merely looking for an easier way to hunt deer during the bow season. For instance, I know of at least a dozen people that use bows during gun season, but I don't know of anybody that uses a crossbow during gun season. There are probably thousands of such bowhunters in Michigan that thrive on the challenge that bow hunting provides. When I start seeing evidence of thousands of crossbow hunters taking advantage of the law that allows them to hunt during the gun season, or some other sign that they really don’t just want crossbows for a shortcut, then I may be impressed enough to change my mind on the topic. Actions speak louder than words.

I hope that those bowhunters that you describe hunting during firearms season are not using compounds or resin impregnated recurves or synthetic strings on their wooden longbows or carbon or aluminum arrows or plastic vanes or steel broadheads or trigger releases or scent-loc suits or treestands or rangefinders or any of the other modern technology that is used by 99.9% of Michigan's bowhunters.

Unless you are out there wearing a loin cloth and hunting with a hand carved yew bow with stone arrowheads, as Ishi did, you have lost the moral high-ground regarding taking "shortcuts". Anything less simply becomes an arbitrary yardstick established by those who presume to be in a position to judge what is or is not acceptable, based solely on their own perception and in the absence of any "facts".

Fred Bear would have been embarrassed by the presumptuous attitude and sickened by the divisive nature of some of todays elitist bowhunters, who feel justified in making judgments regarding how others within the hunting fraternity should be able to hunt.

[OscodaAsh]

Marty don't worry about it. When people can't come up with any scientific reason to deny crossbows they come up with illogical statements........

Illogical statements like a hunter is a hunter no matter what weapon... My point was that was a ridiculous staement.

For the record, I would never dream of hitting a deer with my truck. I was making a point. I believe a valid one being that we have to draw the lines on weapon use somewhere. I have no problem with a crossbow season... I just don't like them being used in bow season.

[Ferris_StateHunter]

Illogical statements like a hunter is a hunter no matter what weapon... My point was that was a ridiculous staement.

For the record, I would never dream of hitting a deer with my truck. I was making a point. I believe a valid one being that we have to draw the lines on weapon use somewhere. I have no problem with a crossbow season... I just don't like them being used in bow season.

yes the line is a crossbow is a weapon and a truck is a vehicle that is the line...

so how about before gun season you can use verticals only and then late season hunting you can hunt with crossbows... Man ill make some compromises if it means I can use my xbow, but to make the statement a xbow is not a bow, is absurd

[DANIEL MARK ZAPOLSKI]

Fred Bear would have been embarrassed by the presumptuous attitude and sickened by the divisive nature of some of todays elitist bowhunters, who feel justified in making judgments regarding how others within the hunting fraternity should be able to hunt.[/QUOTE]

i can tell you first hand FRED BEAR would have chastised each and every one of those would stand against someone trying to hunt with any weapon of their choice. i had the privledge of talking and listening to these very types of conversations with that GREAT MAN. he didn't care for compound bows at ALL. but he would never have tried to stop 1 single person from hunting with it and those are his EXACT WORDS. SO SIT UP ON ALL YOUR POMPOUS AS*** AND THINK ABOUT THAT. FRED BEAR, BEN PEARSON, AND ALL THE REST ARE ROLLING OVER IN THEIR GRAVES ON THIS ONE FOLKS.:rant:

[marty]

For the record, I would never dream of hitting a deer with my truck. I was making a point. I believe a valid one being that we have to draw the lines on weapon use somewhere. I have no problem with a crossbow season... I just don't like them being used in bow season.

A crossbow kills the same as any other bow legal now. There's no dark secret about them. Just why do you not want them used in bow season??

Personally I think it would cut down on the wounded deer stories myself and that can't be bad...m:D

[OscodaAsh]

yes the line is a crossbow is a weapon and a truck is a vehicle that is the line...

so how about before gun season you can use verticals only and then late season hunting you can hunt with crossbows... Man ill make some compromises if it means I can use my xbow, but to make the statement a xbow is not a bow, is absurd

That is the best idea I've heard yet. I never meant to compare a crossbow to a truck. Just making a point that I don't think a crossbow is as challenging or as primative of a weapon as a bow. Even with the bows we have now you still have to draw on the deer, which in my opinion is what makes bowhunting so challenging.

Crossbows have there place. I just think that allowing them for the entire bow season would not be a step in the right direction for our deer herd.

[wally-eye]

If a person "only" bow hunts and crossbows were legal in bow season how many deer would that person be legally authorized to harvest??????????

[fowl assasination]

i dont see any reason not to if you cannot pull back a compound for any reason.

[lang49]

Fred Bear would have been embarrassed by the presumptuous attitude and sickened by the divisive nature of some of todays elitist bowhunters, who feel justified in making judgments regarding how others within the hunting fraternity should be able to hunt.

i can tell you first hand FRED BEAR would have chastised each and every one of those would stand against someone trying to hunt with any weapon of their choice. i had the privledge of talking and listening to these very types of conversations with that GREAT MAN. he didn't care for compound bows at ALL. but he would never have tried to stop 1 single person from hunting with it and those are his EXACT WORDS. SO SIT UP ON ALL YOUR POMPOUS AS*** AND THINK ABOUT THAT. FRED BEAR, BEN PEARSON, AND ALL THE REST ARE ROLLING OVER IN THEIR GRAVES ON THIS ONE FOLKS.:rant:

No science in any of these remarks...

[kwcharne]

i dont see any reason not to if you cannot pull back a compound for any reason.


I agree, if you can use a compound bow then why not use it, if you cannot pull back a compound bow then a crossbow would be a great alternative. If crossbows hunt the exact same way as a compound bow then why try to change the law to use them? All the arguments are that they are not easier to use and that they are "basically the exact same thing". If they are not easier to use then why are we pushing the issue to make the legal?

[Camo Boy]

It would be a disaster if the State allowed crossbows for everyone during the regular archery season. It's bad enough now with all these fancy wheel bows with all their contraptions.

When driving around town with my buck in the back of my truck (with the tailgate down) everyone in town might assume I took the easy way out and used a crossbow. I could lose all my 'street cred'. It's bad enough now having to explain to everyone (not in the know) how much more challenging it is to hunt the way I do. Many folks already automatically assume I use a compound with a release, lighted sights, drop away rest, carbon arrows, mechanical broadheads, climbing stands, camo, and scent control products.

It is a pain having to explain to them how much better of a hunter I am than that, and convince them how it is sooo much more of a rewarding experience to do it my way, the right way. Making my own bow, arrows, and points. Giving up showers except for the occasional rinse off in the creek. Wearing nothing but a loin cloth and self made moccasins and walking 6 miles back and forth from my hunting property. The hours of practice it takes every day to be able to consistantly keep less than 12" groups at 25 yards.

I guess maybe I could accept crossbows in archery season for everyone if there would be some kind of way the general population could easily identify these posers. Maybe make all able bodied crossbow hunters get a big "L" tattooed on their forhead or something. lol "L" for .......................

:lol:

Better hunter, my way, the right way :confused:
now that's funny :rolleyes:

[Joe Archer]

It would be a disaster if the State allowed crossbows for everyone during the regular archery season. It's bad enough now with all these fancy wheel bows with all their contraptions.

When driving around town with my buck in the back of my truck (with the tailgate down) everyone in town might assume I took the easy way out and used a crossbow. I could lose all my 'street cred'. It's bad enough now having to explain to everyone (not in the know) how much more challenging it is to hunt the way I do. Many folks already automatically assume I use a compound with a release, lighted sights, drop away rest, carbon arrows, mechanical broadheads, climbing stands, camo, and scent control products.

It is a pain having to explain to them how much better of a hunter I am than that, and convince them how it is sooo much more of a rewarding experience to do it my way, the right way. Making my own bow, arrows, and points. Giving up showers except for the occasional rinse off in the creek. Wearing nothing but a loin cloth and self made moccasins and walking 6 miles back and forth from my hunting property. The hours of practice it takes every day to be able to consistantly keep less than 12" groups at 25 yards.

I guess maybe I could accept crossbows in archery season for everyone if there would be some kind of way the general population could easily identify these posers. Maybe make all able bodied crossbow hunters get a big "L" tattooed on their forhead or something. lol "L" for .......................

:lol:
Tred (Barta)... is that you? :lol:
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[Ferris_StateHunter]

the only comments I see that are negative against the xbows, many people believe they are easier.. and will result in more kills, Just not true

People say you have to draw on a deer with a vertical, while true, todays cams and let-offs allow you to hold the bow for a good chunk of time allowing the hunter to pick a spot and hold untill the deer walks through, while I realize there is a difference because well the deer doesnt always do what you think it will, but its still a great advantage, the whole thing of drawing back on a deer looking right at ya like a recurve is just not there like it was before.

I do not think it will increase kills to a point it hurts the herd, heck we need more deer taken out of here, either that or our trucks and cars will do it for us. I do think we might gain new hunters, who in the long run like many hunters, will try new things and eventually go vertical for the challenge, now some may not ever change, but I think a majority will.

And no science is needed for the fred bear comment, he would not have liked anyone to critisize someone elses form of hunting. Passing the love of the hunt on was his goal, and anyway it could be done, I am sure he would support

[Munsterlndr]

And no science is needed for the fred bear comment, he would not have liked anyone to critisize someone elses form of hunting. Passing the love of the hunt on was his goal, and anyway it could be done, I am sure he would support

I think this quote exemplifies how Fred would have felt about hunters using crossbows. His long time associate Dick Latimer has said that Fred was constantly irritated by some of the elitist attitudes evidenced by some bow hunters and felt that they were detrimental to the positive image of bow hunting that he was trying to promote.

"You asked how archers can improve the bowhunting picture. Archers can do that first by remembering that there are people who like to hunt with a gun, just as many of us like to hunt with the bow. Each should have the same respect providing he is as good a sportsman as anyone else. Many archers look down on the gun hunter. That is not the proper attitude. This fellow is enjoying the same sport, only he's doing it with a different weapon of his choice.

Many people get the sportsman's fraternity against them by scowling at the business of hunting with a gun, thinking that bowhunting is the only way to hunt. That is wrong. You have to be a good sport."

[Joe Archer]

the only comments I see that are negative against the xbows, many people believe they are easier.. and will result in more kills, Just not true

I believe you are correst. From the experience I have with crossbows and with people who own crossbows, I would say many over estimate their efficiency. A crossbow should be limited to 30 yards or less (probably 20 yards or less) and shots should be at broadside, or slightly quartering animals. Yes indeed, people think they are easier, and more effective than they really are. The crossbows I have experience with are EXTREMELY inconsistent. I would think that this would lead to wounding a higher percentage of animals. I believe that an archer who practices with a modern compound has a much greater chance at a humane kill than does someone using a crossbow.
Anyone have shot to recovery data with crossbows from other states?
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[Munsterlndr]

I believe you are correst. From the experience I have with crossbows and with people who own crossbows, I would say many over estimate their efficiency. A crossbow should be limited to 30 yards or less (probably 20 yards or less) and shots should be at broadside, or slightly quartering animals. Yes indeed, people think they are easier, and more effective than they really are. The crossbows I have experience with are EXTREMELY inconsistent. I would think that this would lead to wounding a higher percentage of animals. I believe that an archer who practices with a modern compound has a much greater chance at a humane kill than does someone using a crossbow.
Anyone have shot to recovery data with crossbows from other states?
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Joe -
If you are truly interested in protecting the interests of archers you might not even want to bring up the subject of wounding rates. ;)

No evidence from any states that have expanded crossbow use to support your idea that a vertical bow user has any greater chance of a humane kill than a crossbow user. Ask the 30,000 plus Michigan hunters who have crossbow permits whether there is any difference.

What I do agree with is the fact that crossbows require practice to maintain consistency just like vertical bows do. Tell that to your bow hunting buddies who have never fired a crossbow but maintain that you can take one off the shelf and never have to practice. Any responsible hunter, whether using a vertical bow or a crossbow or a firearm should be practicing frequently and learning to judge distances and the changes in point of aim that occur when shooting at a target that is uphill or downhill, etc. Hitting targets at a range is a lot different than shooting at game. How many vertical bow hunters practice religiously at shooting at a bale of hay but never take a shot from a tree stand until the first time they draw on a deer? I'd say plenty. I'd also agree that it's a 30 yard weapon. Both vertical bows and crossbows are capable of taking game at longer distances if everything is absolutely perfect but they are low percentage shots and should be passed on by the vast majority of hunters.

[Joe Archer]

Joe -
If you are truly interested in protecting the interests of archers you might not even want to bring up the subject of wounding rates. ;)
I brought it up because I am guessing that it will be higher for crossbow users for a lot of reasons not excluding dedication.

No evidence from any states that have expanded crossbow use to support your idea that a vertical bow user has any greater chance of a humane kill than a crossbow user. Ask the 30,000 plus Michigan hunters who have crossbow permits whether there is any difference.

For this examle I do not need to ask anyone, I was relaying information from my own expericnce with crossbows. Personally, I would never hunt with such an inconsistent weapon. Sure, I can put target tips on and hit a dime at 20 yards all day. Replace the target tip with a broadhead of the same weight and you have to resight in the system because you now miss by a couple feet! What is worse, sight in with one arrow/broadhead combination and than shoot a matching bolt with an identical broadhead and you are off as much as 7 inches at 20 yards! Hell, we'd have as much of a chance at a humane kill with a BB gun.
I actually know some of those 30,000 who quit hunting with their crossbows because they crippled too many deer. That is fact, no need to ask anyone.
How many people who are lobbying to legalize crossbows have actually fired the damn things?
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[marty]

I The crossbows I have experience with are EXTREMELY inconsistent.
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Some of the older crossbow were not as accurate as today's newer models. With a little practice a person could kill a deer at 40 yards no problem. Today's model's shoot scopes, carbon arrows and devices that cock the crossbow for you. I am very deadly with my horton:lol: and yes you have to practice.......m:D

[Whit1]

How many people who are lobbying to legalize crossbows have actually fired the damn things?
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I have, not much, but I have. I took the opportunity to shoot them on the ground with a rest and up in a tree in more of a hunting situation. From the ground and on a rest they were fairly easy to use (opps...there's that sinner word "easy"....:lol:), but in a tree they present problems of manuverability that are not found in a veritical bow. In that regard the vertical bow was easier to use (Oh no! There's that word again!!! Horrors!.....:lol:

[Joe Archer]

From the ground and on a rest they were fairly easy to use (opps...there's that sinner word "easy"....:lol:), but in a tree they present problems of manuverability that are not found in a veritical bow. In that regard the vertical bow was easier to use (Oh no! There's that word again!!! Horrors!.....:lol:
This has been too much fun. :lol::lol::lol:
I have had a few women call me easy in my day... The word didn't bother me at that time, nor does it bother me in this thread....
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[Munsterlndr]

Joe -
Your concerns about the inaccuracies of crossbows can just as easily be said about vertical bows. How many compound users actually know how to tune their bow? I know bow hunters who can hit a target all day but put them in a hunting situation and they can't hit the broad side of a barn. If you need any anecdotal evidence just look at the "lost deer" threads that proliferate this forum during bow season. I know people who have quit bow hunting because of no longer being confident of being able to humanely kill a deer. I can say this because I'm one of them. I hunted with a compound for over ten years. The last couple of years, due to some physical issues I have not been able to attain the degree of consistency that I feel is required before launching an arrow at a living critter. So I left the bow in the case and hunted with a camera instead.

And I've got to tell you if it came down to choosing one over the other in a duel, I'd take a crossbow over a BB gun every day of the week and I'm betting that you would too. ;)

[Whit1]

This has been too much fun. :lol::lol::lol:
I have had a few women call me easy in my day... The word didn't bother me at that time, nor does it bother me in this thread....
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:lol: :lol: I'd have to amend that by saying I was "easy and willing".......:lol:

[DANIEL MARK ZAPOLSKI]

No science in any of these remarks...

NO SCIENCE NEEDED when you deal WITH FACTS!:evilsmile

JOE ARCHER: as far as firing a crossbow, i have fired the one that my 87 year old dad just gave me last year. I SPENT 2 HOURS just trying to find the right arrow head weight with 3 different broadheads and the bolts he gave me, to shoot it correctly at 25/35 yards.i have yet to shoot it at 45 yards, but until i do i won't even think about shooting it at a deer. dad no longer can make it into the woods to hunt. he belonged to MBH since damn near its creation i believe 1947 or 48 he has all but one patch (I'LL TAKE SOME PIC'S OF HIS PATCH DISPLAY AND POST THEM FOR YOU ALL)and was a stick bow man then a recurve man and then a compound man and finally he became a crossbow man due to age and physical problems. MY DAD ATE, DRANK, WORKED ,PLAYED ,WIH HIS BOW,:D I THINK HE EVEN SLEPT WITH IT in the begining he hated compounds and crossbows then it was just crossbows and then the only way he could hunt was with a crossbow. the last 2 years he hunted he couldn't even pull the bow back so he got the dreaded crossbow and liked it. GO FIGURE HE LOVED HUNTING SO MUCH HE SPENT $$800 ON A CROSSBOW.
now i cannot pull a bow back due to work related injury and had to jump that INSANE HOOPLA, but i did it because as long as this veteran can draw a single breath no one will stop me from whitetail hunting with whatever i wish as long as its legal. and i'll fight to the end of this fight for anyone with or without physical limitations to use a crossbow.
i can tell you first hand that a crossbow up in a treestand is ONE HELL OF ALOT HARDER TO SHOOT A DEER WITH compared to my compound bow. but last year i did get a 2.5 year old 4 point with my dads horton crossbow, and this spring i intend on getting a gobbler with a 8 inch beard with it for the CBM BOOK BEFORE MY DAD PASSES ON TO THE GREAT BOWHUNTER IN THE SKY.

[Munsterlndr]

, and this spring i intend on getting a gobbler with a 8 inch beard with it for the CBM BOOK BEFORE MY DAD PASSES ON TO THE GREAT BOWHUNTER IN THE SKY.

DMZ -
What is really ironic is that the DNR will not allow regular hunters without a crossbow permit to hunt turkey with a crossbow. You can shoot one with a 12 gauge but not with your horton (unless you have the permit) :rolleyes:

Another silly rule that we can thank the bow lobby for. I have seen discussions in bow hunting newsgroups suggesting that they need to lobby the DNR against allowing crossbows for turkey hunting because they are worried that too many hunters may choose to buy a crossbow to hunt turkey and then find that they enjoy hunting with them and want to lobby to get them legalized for deer season. :rolleyes:

[DANIEL MARK ZAPOLSKI]

DMZ -
What is really ironic is that the DNR will not allow regular hunters without a crossbow permit to hunt turkey with a crossbow. You can shoot one with a 12 gauge but not with your horton (unless you have the permit) :rolleyes:

Another silly rule that we can thank the bow lobby for. I have seen discussions in bow hunting newsgroups suggesting that they need to lobby the DNR against allowing crossbows for turkey hunting because they are worried that too many hunters may choose to buy a crossbow to hunt turkey and then find that they enjoy hunting with them and want to lobby to get them legalized for deer season. :rolleyes:

as far as the permit goes I GOT IT FOR LIFE!:D
and as far as the MBH/MTA goes SAME OLD S*** :rant:nothing new with their arrogance!:dizzy: